Evaluation of indwelling intravenous catheters for the regional perfusion of the limbs of horses.

Author(s): Kelmer G, Catasus CT, Saxton AM, Elliot SB

Affiliation(s): galkelmer@hotmail.com

Publication date & source: 2009-10-24, Vet Rec., 165(17):496-501.

Publication type: Randomized Controlled Trial; Research Support, Non-U.S. Gov't

The feasibility of maintaining indwelling intravenous catheters in the saphenous, cephalic or palmar digital vein of horses for seven days to infuse antimicrobial drugs was investigated in 18 horses. The horses were randomly assigned to six groups according to the vein catheterised and whether they received amikacin or erythromycin. None of the catheters was replaced more than once, and 11 of the 18 catheters remained patent for all seven days. Neither the drug administered nor the vein catheterised significantly affected the survival of the catheter. In all but three cases, complications, including local inflammation, lameness, thrombophlebitis and one severe tissue reaction to erythromycin, resolved during the seven days.